Finding the Area bounded by the curve

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    Area Bounded Curve
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the area bounded by the curve defined by the equation $$x = 16 - y^4$$ and the y-axis. Participants explore various methods of integration and the application of the even-function rule in calculating the area, while also checking each other's work and calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes to find the area using the integral $$\int^2_{-2} (16 - y^4) dy$$ and provides a detailed calculation.
  • Another participant corrects the first by stating that the curve is not a parabola but resembles one, noting its intersection with the y-axis at $$y = \pm 2$$.
  • A different approach is suggested using the even-function rule, leading to the expression $$A=2\int_0^2 (16 - y^4) dy$$.
  • Several participants recalculate the area and arrive at the result $$\frac{256}{5}$$, questioning its correctness.
  • One participant expresses a desire to understand the even-function rule better and seeks resources for its definition and application.
  • Another participant discusses how to apply the even-function rule to a different function, $$5 - x^2$$.
  • Clarifications about the even-function rule are provided, explaining its symmetry and how it simplifies the integration process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the initial interpretation of the curve, as participants disagree on its classification. However, there is agreement on the correctness of the area result $$\frac{256}{5}$$ as calculated using the even-function rule.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the application of the even-function rule and its implications for different functions, indicating a need for further clarification on the topic.

shamieh
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Find the area bounded by the curve $$x = 16 - y^4$$ and the y axis.

I need someone to check my work.

so I know this is a upside down parabola so I find the two x coordinates which are

$$16 - y^4 = 0$$
$$y^4 = 16$$
$$y^2 = +- \sqrt{4}$$
$$y = +- 2$$

so I know

$$\int^2_{-2} 16 - y^4 dy$$

Take antiderivative

$$16y - \frac{1}{5}y^5$$ | -2 to 2

so $$(2) = 32 - \frac{32}{5} = \frac{160}{5}$$

then $$(-2) = -32 - (\frac{-32}{5}) = -32 + \frac{32}{5} = \frac{-160}{5} + \frac{32}{5} = \frac{-128}{5}$$

SO finally
$$
[\frac{160}{5}] - [\frac{-128}{5}] = \frac{288}{5}$$
 
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This is not a parabola. It is like a parabola that intersects the y-axis at $$y=\pm 2$$ so it is open to the left. I suggest you revise your calculations.
 
I would use the even-function rule to state:

$$A=2\int_0^2 16-y^4\,dy=\frac{2}{5}\left[80y-y^5 \right]_0^2=?$$
 
Recalculated answer below if someone has a chance to check.
 
Last edited:
recalculated and got $$\frac{256}{5}$$ . Is that correct?

- - - Updated - - -

MarkFL said:
I would use the even-function rule to state:

$$A=2\int_0^2 16-y^4\,dy=\frac{2}{5}\left[80y-y^5 \right]_0^2=?$$

Yea this rule is so much easier!

- - - Updated - - -

Mark, know anywhere where I can find a good definition of the even function rule, so I can see how and when I can apply it etc. I googled it but couldn't find this one.
 
Like how would I use this rule if i had $$5 - x^2 $$?
 
shamieh said:
recalculated and got $$\frac{256}{5}$$ . Is that correct?

- - - Updated - - -
Yea this rule is so much easier!

- - - Updated - - -

Mark, know anywhere where I can find a good definition of the even function rule, so I can see how and when I can apply it etc. I googled it but couldn't find this one.

Yes, your result of $$A=\frac{256}{5}$$ is correct.

An even function is symmetric about the $y$-axis, i.e., $$f(-x)=f(x)$$. If your limits of integration are also symmetric about the $y$-axis, then you may apply the even function rule.

Observe that:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=\int_{-a}^0 f(x)\,dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx$$

Now, in the first integral, if we replace $x$ with $-x$, we have:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=\int_{a}^0 f(-x)\,-dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx$$

Bringing the negative in front of the differential out front and using $$f(-x)=f(x)$$, we have:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=-\int_{a}^0 f(x)\,-dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx$$

Applying the FTOC, we obtain:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=-\left(F(0)-F(a) \right)+F(a)-F(0)=2F(a)=2\int_0^a f(x)\,dx$$
 
MarkFL said:
Yes, your result of $$A=\frac{256}{5}$$ is correct.

An even function is symmetric about the $y$-axis, i.e., $$f(-x)=f(x)$$. If your limits of integration are also symmetric about the $y$-axis, then you may apply the even function rule.

Observe that:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=\int_{-a}^0 f(x)\,dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx$$

Now, in the first integral, if we replace $x$ with $-x$, we have:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=\int_{a}^0 f(-x)\,-dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx$$

Bringing the negative in front of the differential out front and using $$f(-x)=f(x)$$, we have:

$$\int_{-a}^a f(x)\,dx=-\int_{a}^0 f(x)\,dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx=\int_{0}^a f(x)\,dx+\int_0^a f(x)\,dx=2\int^a_0 f(x)\, dx $$
 

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